Full Notification

Petaluma Police Drone Assists in Locating Suspect:

On January 20, 2025, our dispatch center received a call regarding a significant disturbance in the 700 block of Lakeville Circle. While responding to the location, officers learned the suspect had left the scene on foot.
 
After learning that the suspect fled the scene, officers quickly mobilized a Petaluma Police Department Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) (drone) and deployed it in the area in an attempt to locate the suspect within the perimeter that arriving officers had set.
 
Approximately fifteen minutes after deploying the Unmanned Aircraft System, the suspect was located while attempting to hide and was taken into custody without further incident.

The safety of our community is our highest priority; the use of drones is just one way we provide added security to Petaluma. In addition to offering enhanced real-time footage and access to difficult areas, drones provide law enforcement with a cost-effective alternative to helicopters, improved officer safety, instant access to critical incidents, invaluable support in search and rescue, and greater transparency for the community. We are grateful to join the many agencies that have successfully integrated this advanced technology into their operations, and are already benefiting from the program.